Mozambique Independence Day marked with peace walk and dialogue
This year's celebration underscored the ongoing need for unity and peace-building efforts in the face of current challenges.
MAPUTO, Mozambique— Over 50 people participated in a peace walk and dialogue to celebrate Mozambique's Independence Day recently, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the conflict-torn nation, writes Winston Mwale.
The International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) partnered with Associação Jovem Activo Mozambique to organize the event, which began with the national anthem and a walk to Samora Moises Machel School.
Participants engaged in intergenerational dialogues, storytelling sessions, and activities aimed at fostering unity and peace awareness.
Older citizens shared pre-independence experiences over a communal meal, bridging generational gaps through shared history and games.
The celebration comes amid ongoing conflict in Cabo Delgado, where Islamist militant groups have caused over 4,000 deaths and displaced more than 800,000 people since 2017.
The violence has disrupted infrastructure, reduced agricultural output, and slowed economic growth, with young people facing psychological trauma and increased vulnerability to insurgent recruitment.
Guilherme Castelo, a representative of Associacao de Jovem Activo Mozambique, said, "The peace walk and dialogue were incredibly impactful. It was heartening to see the community come together to discuss such important issues and work towards a peaceful future for Mozambique."
The event aligned with Article 10 of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), which emphasizes spreading a culture of peace through education, communication, and dialogue.
Mozambique has celebrated its independence from Portuguese colonial rule annually since 1975.
This year's celebration underscored the ongoing need for unity and peace-building efforts in the face of current challenges.